Supervise! Overseeing the work of a contract lawyer is your ethical duty. Outsourcing lawyers should also be sensitive to the impression the contract lawyer makes on the client, particularly if they engage in client communication.

Beware of potential unauthorized practice of law. Ensure the contract lawyer is licensed to deliver services in the state of the client’s legal issue.

Don’t hesitate to bill for the contract lawyer’s services at prevailing market rates. I would add: include this cost (or fee) in your client engagement letter.

If you are considering hiring a contract lawyer (or want to offer your services on a contract basis), check out the following resources from the Professional Liability Fund:

Contract Lawyers Checklist

Contract Project – Letter of Understanding

Contract Project Intake Sheet

Independent Contractors or Employees

Letter Declining Contract Project

From the PLF home page, select Practice Management > Forms > Contract Lawyering. A number of CLEs are also available under the CLE > Past CLE heading:

Contract Lawyers CLE: Conflicts

Contract Attorneys: Managing Expectations and Getting Paid

Practical Contract Lawyering

To learn about Oregon malpractice coverage for contract lawyers and qualifying for a “supervised attorney” exemption, contact the PLF at 503.639.6911 or 800.452.1639 and ask for Jeff Crawford or Emilee Preble.